ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
ANILINE (C6H5NH2)
SYNONYMS
Benzenamine, phenylamine, aminobenzene.
CHARACTERISTICS
Oily, clear light brown liquid which turns brown on exposure to
air. Musty, fishy odour.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Is a strong reducing agent reacting violently with oxidants.
Also reacts violently with acids and is corrosive to aluminium
and zinc. Is explosive when mixed with ozone.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
The liquid and vapour are toxic. May be absorbed by inhalation
of the vapour or direct contact through the skin. Direct skin
contact may cause dermatitis. Vapour contact to the eyes causes
redness and pain a splash to the eye may cause permanent eye
damage. Inhalation of the vapour causes shortness of breath,
dizziness, bluish skin and faintness, in severe cases
methaemoglobinaemia may occur followed by unconsciousness and
death. Ingestion and skin contact causes symptoms similar to
inhalation.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Keep away from alkalis.
Keep away from oxidising materials.
Keep away from combustible substances.
Keep away from metal powders.
Keep the container tightly sealed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Use a fume hood to minimise exposure to this substance. Wear
protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact, inhalation or
ingestion. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber
gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin immediately wash the affected area with soap or mild
detergent and large amounts of water until all evidence of the
chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If
hypersensitivity develops seek medical attention.
Eyes wash the affected eye with large amounts of water until
all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15
minutes). If irritation or pain persist seek immediate medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep
warm and allow to rest. If irritation persists or signs of
toxicity develop seek medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give
water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back
of the throat or by administering Ipecac syrup. Never give
anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Seek immediate
medical advice.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat, ignition
sources, direct sunlight, acids and oxidising agents.
DISPOSAL
Wear butyl rubber gloves, laboratory coat and self contained
breathing apparatus.
SPILLS: Small spills - absorb liquid on paper towels. Brush
solids on to paper. Place in an iron pan and allow evaporation
in a fume hood. Add crumpled paper and burn. Wash spill site
with a strong soap solution. Large spills - cover with sand and
soda ash mixture (90/10) or inert absorbent material. Mix and
shovel into a suitable container. Dispose of by waste disposal
contractor.
ENVIRONMENT
This is an environmental pollutant and must be contained.
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